Good morning, Portland.

The Water Lantern Festival lit up Portland yesterday, Aug.

13, with vibrant water lantern displays and local art installations downtown (organizers reported a strong community turnout).

Buckdancer's celebrated its 50th anniversary with a weeklong sale and remains a favorite spot for musicians to get gear, repairs, and lessons.

The store on St. John's Street has supported local talent since 1976 and welcomes customers including nationally known artists.

Maine residential customers paid 29.68 cents per kilowatt-hour from January to May, which is about 64% higher than the national average of 18.11 cents, proving rates are not double.

Data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration show rates in Maine and New England were nearly the same.

Severe drought is back in coastal Maine as a lack of steady rain has worsened dry conditions and stressed water supplies (raising wildfire risks) according to the latest U.S. Drought Monitor.

Senate candidate Troy Jackson denied a 1988 Fort Kent police report alleging he pushed his longtime partner when he was 19, stating the incident does not reflect who he is today.

His denial comes after he replaced his predecessor following recent allegations.

Sen. candidate Troy Jackson supports Medicare for All, arguing it will provide universal coverage without premiums (he calls healthcare a right), while Sen. Susan Collins criticizes the plan as too expensive and impractical due to higher taxes amid fiscal uncertainty.

The debate highlights a clear split in Maine’s Senate race.

Senate candidate Troy Jackson denied a 1988 Fort Kent police report that said he pushed his longtime partner.

He stated he took responsibility for a fight at age 19 & stressed that his actions since then show his true character.

Maine is launching an experimental mental health network for farmers affected by PFAS contamination, training crisis line operators (988 and 211) and using peer mentoring from those who have dealt with similar stress.

The program aims to ease emotional trauma amid ongoing efforts to protect rural communities from forever chemicals.

Lucy, a nearly 7-year-old dog who has waited over 1,700 days for a home, is available for adoption at Miles to Freedom Animal Rescue (Oxford).

Portland will get a new women’s soccer team in May as the Portland Hearts of Pine begin their USL W season with six home games at Fitzpatrick Stadium.

All 5,000 season ticket deposits sold out in less than an hour, underscoring local excitement for women’s sports.